Role Play mixes an action premise with a comedy about marriage and concealed identity. Thomas Vincent keeps the film lively, while Kaley Cuoco and David Oyelowo give the central relationship much of its energy.
Emma Brackett appears to be an ordinary suburban mother, but she also works as an assassin. When her husband Dave discovers that other life, both must reconsider the marriage and deal with the danger surrounding it.
Cuoco conveys the physical and emotional demands of Emma's divided existence. Oyelowo brings a welcome comic quality to Dave's response. Bill Nighy and Connie Nielsen give the supporting characters personality, adding to the film's entertainment value.
Vincent balances the action and humor effectively. The urban settings, stunt work and production design help establish a lively atmosphere, while the camera supports the movement of the story. The technical elements work with the performers rather than becoming the film's only attraction.
For me, Role Play succeeds through its combination of humor, action and feeling. Its premise gives the marriage a useful dramatic problem, and the cast makes that disruption enjoyable to watch. Viewers looking for an entertaining action comedy have a film with enough warmth and energy to support its surprises.
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